Three people were killed Tuesday when a garbage truck and car collided in Glenview.

Police said the truck was driving north on Harlem Avenue at about 12:30 p.m. when it hit the car, which was traveling east on Harrison Street in the northern suburb.

Both vehicles caught fire, and all three people in the car were killed. The crash was so horrific that authorities at first were not sure how many victims were inside the car.

The garbage truck driver was unhurt. According to Skokie officials, the driver is a 19-year village employee.

According to a posting on the village's web site, the garbage truck had the right of way and entered the intersection at the same time the car ran a two-way stop sign. It also says the truck driver has an "excellent performance record" and is shaken up over the accident.

Dina King, who called 911, said the flames could be seen for blocks.

"I looked out my window and I saw flames the size of trees," King said. "I expected to see a house on fire. I saw a car on fire and a truck on top of a car."

A woman who tried to help the victims by grabbing a fire extinguisher was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.